Before, if you are coming from the Philippines, you do not have much choice in getting to Siem Reap via a direct flight. Most of the time, Filipino backpackers will include Siem Reap in their Indochina trip passing Thailand-Cambodia-Vietnam or in reverse order.

On the other hand, I have done this Siem Reap one day tour twice. First coming in via bus from Phnom Penh and the last one via direct flight from Manila.

Now, Cebu Pacific has a direct flight from Manila to Siem Reap. Flights are still quite limited but I guess it is a start. If you are lucky you can get 2,000-3,000 pesos one-way per person during their regular airfare promos. Cheaper if you are really really lucky.

I used to be awed by Siem Reap International Airport. But the last time I was there, they are still renovating certain parts of the airport. The security checks and immigration lines are too long and crowded.

Most hotels will offer free airport pick-up. If not, this should not be more than 5 USD.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

What I am sure of is that you will be bombarded with options. Accommodations in many forms, styles, sizes and prices are everywhere.

I stayed in Mandalay Inn before. It was 5 years ago. I recently referred it to a friend and was informed that the quality of the place has deteriorated. But despite all that, this is where I have met a Burmese friend. Hopefully I can go write about my Myanmar trip soon.

More recently, I have stayed in Bayon Boutique Hotel. Near the Pub Street and near almost every where.

The ranking of this hotel in Tripadvisor is not that high. However, with the price per night and location, for me it was a great choice.

The staffs were really amazing. They even made someone’s birthday really special.

Their rooms are big and clean. The sheets smell and look fresh and not worn out. I understand that the whole hotel has just been opened for business for just a couple of years hence the pristine status.

My concern was the setup of the bathroom/toilet and the shower room. You literally have to step out of one and cross the room to get to the other one.

The set breakfast is okay. We were not able to try the swimming pool though. It is just a small pool but it looks inviting.

The price of the 1-day Angkor Pass is 20 USD per person. If you are planning to stay in Siem Reap longer and visit the temples a couple of times, would suggest for you to get the 3-day pass which will be valid for one week duration.

A lot of people will say that if you want to experience Angkor Wat with less tourist/people, go really early for the sunrise. However, that line is repeated to almost every one. So early or not, there will be a lot of people. Come on, it is a tourist destination. Expect people everywhere.

If you want to take a picture of Angkor Wat with no people in sight, go on the other end of the complex.

Ta Prohm aka Tomb Raider Temple

There are two entry and exit points for this temple, would suggest that you go with the entrance nearest the temple so that you will exit on the long walk on the other end. There is a dirt road with some thick forest on this exit.

Ta Prohm is not as organize in terms of navigation inside the temple. But once inside it, you will be amazed how nature, specifically the trees have managed to reclaim the landscape of the temple. This will give you a good perspective that the temple has been abandoned for hundreds if not thousands of years ago.

Angkor Thom and Prasat Bayon

My personal favorite. This complex is the reason why it is worth the trip going to a Siem Reap one day tour.